Individualized dispensing packages



o a United States Patent u 13,540,579

[72] Inventor "no" Ri [hum- 3,207,299 9/ 1965 Sparks 206/56A3 centerAye, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 3,216,562 1 1/1965 LOCkWOOd 15232 PrimaryExaminer-James B. Marbert PP 716,554 Attorney-Buell, Blenko andZiesenheim [22] Filed March 27, 1968 [45] Patented Nov.l7, 1970 54INDIVIDUALIZED DISPENSING PACKAGES ABSTRACT; P e an individualiged p gmp g 25 Claims, 50 Drawing Figs a relatively rigid backing member, anitem for dispensing positloned within a central area of said backlngmember, and a [52] [LS- Cl 206/56 frangible membrane lightly stretchedover said item and [51] 8654 85/00 joined about the periphery of saidbacking member, the struc- [50] Field ofSearch tum] strength of Saidbacking member being in excess of the 206/56M1SCw56A2,56A356A442 rupturestrength of said membrane so that said membrane breaks upon angulationof said backin member generally [56] References Cited away from saiditem. Means are also pr vided for modifying UNITED STATES PATENTS therupture characteristic of the membrane or the angulation 2,499,3132/1950 Hoag 206/56A2 characteristic of the backing member forcontrolling the 2,889,922 6/1959 Clarvoe 206/56A3 dispensingcharacteristic of the item Patented Nov. 17, 1970 Patented Nov. 17, 1970Z of 6 Sheet rm R n 7 ma w N4 2 E 0 a W F ma g M Patented Nov. 17, 1970Sheet '5 of 6 Patented Nov. 17, 1970 3,540,579

Hal/"06d 1?. I191! 562 0122.

Hi6 ATTIORNEJ/I Patented Nov. 17, 1970 3,540,579

Sheet 6 of6 3y Havold 6'. 1785800172:

packaged. lndividual packets The present-inventionrelates to dispensers,means for rnaking dispensers, and more particularly to dispensing meansand methods capable of handling individualized dosages. and/or portions.

Although my' invention is described primarily in relationship to thepharmaceutical arts, it-will be apparent asthis description proceedsthat the dispensing package ofmy invention can be employed with equalfacility for packaging and dispensing individual portions or servings ofcondiments, including coffee cream and sugar, and similar items such astable salt; orfor packaging and dispensing many types of small articlesof merchandise, for example, nuts and bolts and other hardware items oritems of jewelry such as rings.

In the pharmaceutical and related arts, requirements for individualizedpackages or dosages of various pharmaceuticals including pills, tablets,capsules and the like havelong posed a problem. Although suchpharmaceuticals have been provided in a myriad of individual packets,strip .packages,,and compartmentized containers; these packages andthc'like have failed to overcome the difficulties involved inindividualized dispensing of pharmaceuticals. Almost" invariably, knownforms of individualized packages or packets have required the use of twohands of the user in order to open the packages and extract the pill orcapsule. Frequently, the pill or capsule is crushed or broken in theopening operation. In many cases it is difficult to prevent the packagesitem from dropping to the floor or other surface'and becomingcontaminated during the opening process. It is difficult, with knownpackages for the user to avoid touching and possibly contaminating theitem. Where the patient requires assistance the packaged .item'mustoften be handled by the nurse or other administeringperson. Thus,although sterile, individualized packages for various types of drugs arewell known, it is virtually impossible to maintain the sterile characterof the packaged items during opening of the packet.

Many pill dispensing cartons sold for home use, include an outersleeveinto which a compartmentized package is inserted. This requiresadditional and difficulty in withdrawing the package, opening thecompartmentized package with two hands, and replacing it. Sleeve-typepackages suffer from the additional disadvantage that bulky-andinconvenient means must be provided for preventing the sleeve frombearingly engaging the top and bottom surfaces of the items contained incompartmentized packages in the sleeve.

For hospital use,'pills'and thelike are conventionally stripmust beseparated from the strip, opened (-with two hands), and the itemsextracted and administered :individually to patients. In a large, modernhospital these minor delaysare. multiplied many times over. Frequently,the items arezdropped while opening at considerable risk ofcontamination.

Known forms of individualized packets and other pharmaceutical packagespresent the common disadvantage of being readily opened when-carelesslyleft within the reach of small children. As-iswell known, very nearlyall known drug packages, particularly individualized packets, although.difficult to open" properlywithout spillage or breakage of theircontents, can be opened bysimple tearing motions to which children areusually accustomed..Such packages, therefore, can be opened inthis-manner withoutany unduemental-efl fort, and so are usually. withinthe capabilities of even very young children. Cases of drug-poisoning inchildren are legion, and in most of the larger cities, organizationshave been formed to combat this serious-problem. Recently, the Federal.Foodand DrugaAdministration has become interested in :this

problem, and has proposed a study of safer drug packaging.

In conventional, individualizeddispensingpackets, labeling foridentification and dosage-informationbecomes a problem. In many casesonesolution is the provision of an outer carton forone or moreindividualpackages such as the sleevementioned above'This solutionv of coursecomplicates the package and increases the time and difficulty inopening, dispensing and closing the package. Because of thematerialsemployed-in conventionahseverable strippackages it is difficult to printdire'ctly;upon the strip packages. The problem is complicated by lack ofspaceandthe smallness of the packages.- Many such packages aremade fromtransparent wrapping materials. so .that any-printing applied thereto isdifficult to read especially when reduced in sizeto conformtopackagesizes. s

' For-hospitaluse and even for home, consumption it is desira-"-blegll'l .CflSCOfi-th more commondrugs-such as'aspirin, cold 10.-tablets,-birth control pills to packagethe items in individual packetsconnected in the form of a=stri p for withdrawal from a suitabledispenser. ln many cases the individual packets are in- .advertentlyopened when removed from the strip (before it is intended to give thepill or other item to the patient), since the number of pills or tabletsmustbe dispensed to a large number same tearing motion is involved. Thisincreases thechances of spreading. communicable disease, particularlywhen s large of patients.

dividuals. Obviously, then the individual pill. packets or thecompartmentized dispenser cannot be preprinted by the manufacturerto-indicate the day of the week on which taking of the pills-mustbecommenced.

Known individualized packets are not useful for dispensing free flowingliquids or solids such as granulated materials-or powders except in theform of capsules. Certain of thesecapsules. are large and difficult formany patients to swallow. Thus, thereis considerable need for anindividualized package capable of containing measurable quantities of a'liquid-or powder which can for example be mixed with water before ad--ministration. Y l

Typical and known packages are disclosed in the U.S. Pats. to Sparks No.3,207,299; Sorensen No. 2,3l7,860; and Hartman No. 3,054,503. Thesepatents are designed primarily for pills or.capsules and-are not capableof modification for use with liquids or powders. Most importantly, thedisclosed packets, as in the case of many such packages-on the market atthe present time, are easily opened by'simple tearing motions, andtherefore offer inadequate child-proofing". ln tearing or .rupturing,thesepackages, printed matter thereon is often deletedwhen the; packageis opened, although tabs, ribbons, perforations or other tearingfacilitating devices are utilized.

In the package disclosed in Sparks US. Pat. No. 3,207,299 a backingportion of the package is perforated to rupture the backing upon bendingfor dispensing purposesThe use of such-"perforations renders sealing ofthe package difficult.

. Moreover; Sparks employs an opaque'material which prevents observationof the'pill or capsule during dispensing-.Hartman U.S. Pat. No.3,054,503 discloses a similar arrangement-hav- .ing an opaque foilbacking and for the most part. exhibits the disadvantages-mentionedabove. The same considerations apply to-Sorensen' U.S. Pat. No.2,317,860which discloses-a two-part tablet container having upper andlower frangible portions.

The cited prior art, together, with other. known individualizedpackages,-does not disclose means for conveniently openingthepackagewithone hand. Nor'are means disclosed for protecting frangibleitemscontained-within the package during transportation and subsequentopening of the package. ln= sofar as I am aware, there'is no knownpackage which permits the item to be observed during the opening so thatthe-item is not inadvertently dropped or otherwise contaminated.

l overcome these disadvantages of the priorart-with the provision ofeasily and conveniently opened,-individtia'lized .packetsfwhich can bejoined in strip form if desired Individual dosages or portions can becompletely sealed within the package of myinvention, so thatcontamination is avoided which .may .result when dispensing from bulkpackages. My

novel packet; whether in strip form or otherwise permits accuratepremeasuring of the substances or items dispensed therefrom. Thecontainers can be readily transported and stored without damage to theitems contained therein. In most applications the necessity for outercartons is eliminated. The packets provide a more or less rigid surfaceon which labels or printing can be applied and easily read. In thecommercial area, the packages of my invention permit purchase of sealedsingle or multiple units. 7

Certain features of my package can be utilized for the containment ofindividual dosages or portions of liquid, semiliquid and powderedmaterials. Most importantly, my novel package can be opened quickly withthe use of one hand only. The other hand of the user can be employed'tocatch the pill or other item dispensed (either directly or with a waterglass or other container) or the item can be dispensed directly into apatients hand or mouth.

The hand movements required in opening my novel package are not readilyapparent to children who are thus not able to manipulate the package.Moreover, small children do not have the physical strength necessary totear open the package by brute force. My package can be arranged so thatdiffering degrees of manual strength or dexterity are required to openthe package to render tampering by children even less likely. Therefore,my package can be readily opened by a knowledgeable user, but can bemade virtually child-proof.

In certain arrangements of my invention, where the packages are joinedin strip formation, selected or individual ones of the packages can beopened with one hand and without detaching the package from the strip.Where, however, the packages are individually detached from the stripthere is no likelihood of inadvertently tearing through the package atthis time. My packages are relatively rigid and therefore more readilyadapted for sequential numbering and correlation to days of the week orother instructions.

I also provide means for preventing the crushing of frangible itemscontained within the package, such as certain types of pills, andcapsules. In other aspects of my invention, the package can be sealed invarious modes against the entry of moisture or foreign materials.

l accomplish these desirable results by providing an individualizedpackage comprising a relatively rigid backing member, an item fordispensing positioned within a central area of said backing member, anda frangible membrane stretched over saiditem and joined about theperiphery of said backing member, the structural strength of saidbacking member being in excess of the rupture strength of said membraneso that said membrane breaks upon angulation of said backing membergenerally away from said item.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein means are providedfor modifying the rupture characteristic of said membrane to control thedispensing characteristic of said item.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein means are providedfor modifying the angulation characteristic of said backing member tocontrol the dispensing characteristic of said item.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein a protective memberat least partially surrounds said item for at least partially preventingthe application of membrane-rupturing forces to said item.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein said membrane isprovided with at least one line of weakening extending generally oversaiditem and generally parallel to the angulation fold of said backingmember.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein said backing memberis provided with at least one line of weakening to determine saidangulation fold therein.

I also desirably provide a similar package wherein a plurality ofsaidpackag'es are joined in strip formation, and means are provided onsaid formation to permit individual angulation of said packages forindividual dispensing therefrom.

During the foregoing discussion, various objects, features andadvantages of the invention have been set forth. These and otherobjects, features and advantages of the invention together withstructural details thereof will be "elaborated upon during theforthcoming description of certain presently preferred embodiments ofthe invention and presently preferred methods of practicing the same.

In the accompanying drawings I have shown certain presently preferredembodiments of the invention and have illustrated certain presentlypreferred methods of practicingthe same,wherein:

FIG. I is an isometric view, ofoneform of individualized packagearranged in accordance with my invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the package as shown in FIG. 1 andtaken along reference line'lI-Il thereof;

FIG. 2A is a similar view showing the package of FIGS. I and 2 with amodified backing member; J

FIG. 2B is a similar view showing a package having modified frangiblemembrane means;

FIG. 3 is a similar view representing a step in the opening of my novelpackage;

FIG. 4 is a similar view showing another form of my novel package;

FIG. 4A is a similar view illustrating a step in the opening of thepackage of FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view showing still another modification of mypackage;

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of still another form of my package andillustrating one arrangement for partially dispensing the contentsthereof;

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the package as shown in FIG. 6 andtaken generally along reference line VIA-VIA thereof. FIG. 6A alsoillustrates a step in the opening of the package of FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view illustrating another form of my novel meansfor partial dispensing;

FIG. 8 is an isometric view showing still another modification of mynovel package structure;

FIG. 8A is an isometric view showing still another modification of mynovel package structure;

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of another form of my package havingprotective means associated therewith for minimizing the amount of forceapplied to the contained item during opening;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along reference lineX-X of FIG. 9, but illustrating a step in the opening of the package;

FIG. 10A is a similar view but illustrating a modified backing memberfor the package of FIG. 9 and a step in the opening of the package;

FIG. 11 is an isometric view of still another form of my novel packageand illustrating additional protective means for preventing theapplication of forces to the contained item;

FIG. 11A is an isometric view of still another arrangement of itemprotection means for use in my novel package;

FIG. 12 is a similar view showing protective means for the containmentof liquids and other relatively free flowing materials;

FIG. 12A is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of a modified formof the package shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 13 is an isometric view of still another form of my novel packageand illustrating another form of the backing member therefor;

FIG. 13A is generally a cross-sectional view of the package shown inFIG. 13 but illustrating its opened condition;

FIG. 13B: is another isometric view of another form of my invention; v

FIGS. 14A, 14B and 14C illustrate means for providing variations inforce required in the opening of my novel package, and an illustrationof one means for increasing the child-proofing" characteristics of thepackage;

FIGS. 15 and 16 are isometric views illustrating steps in the stripform;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are isometric views showing my novel packages assembledin strip form and illustrating various means for facilitating theopening of individual packages without detachment from the strip;

FIG. 18A is an isometric view of another form of my novel strip packagehaving means for partial or complete severance of the individualpackets;

FIGS. 19 and 19A illustrate various means for dispensing my strippackages;

FIG. 20 is a partial isometric view illustrating still another novelmeans for dispensing my novel strip packages;

FIGS. 21A, 21B and 21C are isometric views of individual packets of myinvention and illustrating additional novel means for controlling thedispensing characteristics of the package;

FIGS. 22A and 22B are isometric views illustrating final steps in theopening of the packages of FIGS. 21A and 218, respectively;

FIG. 23A is an isometric view of still another form of my novelindividualized package;

FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the package shown in FIG. 23A butillustrating the opened condition thereof;

FIG. 23C is a partial cross-sectional view of a modified joining meansfor use with my novel blister package;

FIG. 23D is a partial cross-sectional view of another modified joiningmeans for use with the novel blister package ofthe invention;

FIG. 24 is a partially exploded view of a strip package arranged inaccordance with my invention and having novel means associated therewithfor correlating the numbered packets thereof with days of the week ormonth;

FIG. 25 is an isometric view of yet another form ofmy novel package;

FIG. 25A is a longitudinally sectioned view showing the package ofFIG.25 in its partially opened condition;

FIG. 26 is an isometric view of a modified item protecting meanssuitable for use with certain of the packages shown in the precedingfigures;

FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the package as shown in FIG. 26 and takenalong reference line XXVII-XXVII thereof;

FIG. 28 is a similar view but showing the use of a modified, protectivebacking member; and

FIG. 28A is a similar view showing the package of FIG. 28 in its openedcondition.

Referring now more particularly to FIGS. 13 of the drawings, my novelpackage 30 includes a relatively rigid backing member 32 fabricated fromcardboard and the like. In this example the contained item, such as apill, capsule or tablet 34 desirably is positioned centrally upon thebacking member 32. A frangible membrane 36 is lightly stretched over theitem 34 and is joined, preferably sealingly joined, directly to thebacking member 32 on either its front or back side. Alternatively themembrane 36 can be lapped upon itself (not shown) around the back of thebacking member 32 and sealed as by heat or solvent welding or by gluingat its lapped edges.

To facilitate opening of the package 30 in the manner to be describedthe backing member 32 can be provided with a crease or score line orother area of weakening 38 which desirably extends beneath the containeditem 34.

In order to open the package 30 as better shown in FIG. 3 the backingmember 32 is angulated by the application of forces to the edges of thebacking member 32 as denoted by arrows 40 of FIG. 2. Additional force,denoted by arrow 42 is applied in the generally opposite direction tothe central region of the backing member 32 usually to that portionjuxtaposed to the contained item 34. These forces, which can be appliedby the thumb and two fingers of one hand as better shown in FIG. 3,cause the backing member 32 to angulate to the extent that longitudinalforces developed in the frangible membrane 36 cause the latter torupture as denoted by reference character 36a. Rupturing of the membranefrees or partially frees the contained item 34 as discussed more fullybelow. The package 30 at this time can be held so that the Y 6 item 34is easily caught in the other hand (not shown) of the user.Alternatively, the item 34 can be dispensed directly into the hand ormouth of a patient or other recipient of the item 34.

For larger items and correspondingly larger packages (in most casesoutside of the pharmaceutical field) it will be obvious that the packagecan be angulated with the use of both hands, if necessary.

In fabricating the package 30 the backing member 32 must be affordedsufficient structural rigidity so that upon its angulation (FIG. 3) theforces required to rupture themembrane 36 do not exceed the structuralstrength of the angulated backing member 32, which for example may befabricated from cardboard, stiff plastic, thin wood or metal, or thelike. When made of cardboard and similar materials, a coating of knownplastic material can be applied to increase the rigidity of the backingmember 32 or its scalability to the membrane To avoid excessive openingforces, the membrane 36 can be provided with at least one line ofweakening desirably located adjacent the area 44 in which the backingmember will be folded as denoted in FIG. 3. Such line of weakening, forexample can be a single score line or a narrow band of thinned arealapped surfaces 31 (FIG. 2B). For non pharmaceutical applications, orwhere scaling is not required or desired, edges of the sections 33 canbe merely overlapped, without gluing or sealing, to provide theaforementioned line of weakening. The overlappage in such cases can beminimal or the edges of the membrane section simply can be abutted.

In many applications it will be desirable to ensure folding of thebacking member 32 along a line generally parallel to the membraneweakened portion 46 when so used. This can be accomplished by providingthe backing member 32 with a precreasc or score line along the intendedfold 38 to ensure folding of the backing member in the proper direction.The use of the precreased backing member is also useful in those caseswhere the backing member is of such rigidity that angulation thereofotherwise would be difficult with the use of one hand. Alternatively, asbetter shown in FIG. 2A backing member 32a can be fabricated from two ormore layers 52 of cardboard, plastic or the like, the upper layer ofwhich can be provided with a slit or area of discontinuity 54 adjacentthe item to facilitate angulation of the backing member 32a and ruptureof the membrane 36.

In FIG. 4 of the drawings a similarly constructed package 56 isillustrated for packaging a pair of items to be dispensed either at thesame or different times of administration. Thus, a pair of items 34 aredisposed generally on the opposite sides of the backing member 32.Desirably the items 34' are centrally located on the associated side ofthe backing member 32'. A membrane 58 is lightly stretched over theperipheral edges 60 of the backing member and over the items 34' oneither side thereof. The membrane 58 otherwise is similar to themembrane 36 of FIGS. 1-3 of the drawings. Alternatively, overlappedmembrane sections, such as the section 33 of FIG. 2B, can be employedhere. Desirably the membrane is sealed by heat sealing if the backingmember 32' is fabricated from an appropriate plastic or is otherwisejoined, as by glu ing, to the edges 60 of the backing member 32. Thebacking member is further provided with a pair of score lines orprecreases 62 so that the backing member can be angulated as bettershown in FIG. 4A around the remaining items 34b when dispensing thefirst item 34'a.

To facilitate assembly of my novel package, and to prevent subsequentmovement of the contained item 34', the item 34', as better shown inFIG. 5 can be recessed into the material of the backing member 32'. Aslight depression can be used for this purpose when the membrane islightly stretched over the item. If desired, the backing member recess64 can be extended across the width of the backing member as denoted bychain outlines thereof 66 to afford an area of weakening 63. In thelatter case, the membrane is more easily sealed at the back of thebacking member 32.

FIGS. 6 and 6A illustrate another arrangement of my novel package 30'for the partial dispensing of the contained item 34'. In thisarrangement of my invention the frangible membrane 36' is provided witha first line of weakening 46' extending substantially across theadjacent width of the backing member 32'. A relatively short line ofweakening 68 is provided on the membrane 36' and preferably adjoins thelonger score line or the like 36 at right angles thereto and generallyabove the contained item 34'.

With this arrangement angulation of the backing member 32 as bettershown in FIG. 6A ruptures the membrane 36 along the score lines 46' and68 leaving the left half 36'a of the membrane substantially intact. Thismembrane half retains the item 34' upon the backing member 32' until theprotruding portion 34'a thereof is shucked out or extracted by thefingers of the user. In any event, the item can be ejected by pressingon the remaining membrane half to avoid direct contact with the item andpossible contamination.

A similar arrangement for dispensing is shown in FIG. 7. In this examplemembrane 36' is provided with a partial line of weakening 65 and thebacking member 32' is partially creased or otherwise preferentiallyweakened along line 67 disposed directly below the membrane weakening 65as viewed in FIG. 7. With this arrangement, upon angulation of the righthand portion of the backing member 32' (as viewed in FIG. 7) themembrane 36' is partially ruptured along line 65 to expose a sufficientportion of item 34' for subsequent withdrawal by the fingers.

FIG. 8 illustrates another modification of the backing member 32' havingan area of weakening 63 for angulation purposes such as that describedalternatively in connection with FIG. and a recess or cruciform section70 extending transversely thereof to receive an elongated contained item72. The membrane 36' lightly stretched thereover may or may not beprovided with a score line or other area of weakening depending upon thestrength of the frangible membrane 36' and of the item 72. The cruciformdepression (or alternatively an irregularly shaped depression) can beused, also, to position a similarly shaped item (not shown).

FIGS. 9- l2 illustrate various means for packaging relatively freeflowing materials such as liquids, semiliquids and powders andprotective means for preventing the application of undue forces toeasily broken items such as certain pills, capsules and tablets. FIGS. 9and 10, for example, illustrate a package 74 designed for packagingitems such as items 34 of intermediate strength. In furtherance of thispurpose an auxiliary backing member 76 is interposed between thepackaged item 34 and the backing member 32. The package 74 is otherwiseconstructed in accordance with one or more of the preceding FIGS.

With this arrangement upon angulation of the backing member 32', theforces which would otherwise be applied to the item 34' by the stretchedand frangible member 36' are transferred to the edges 78 of the rigidintermediate backing member 76. The auxiliary backing member edges 78reduce but do not entirely remove the rupturing force applied to theitem 34. If desired, the auxiliary backing member 76 can be stabilizedby providing the angulatable backing member 32' with a pair of laterallydisplaced creases, slits or other lines of weakening 80 as better shownin FIG. 10A. The auxiliary backing member 76 can be fabricated fromstiffened cardboard, plastic or other suitable rigid material.

In FIG. 11 of the drawings a fragile item 34' is protected by means of arelatively rigid channel member 82 of U-shaped configuration. Thefragile item 34' is laid upon the bight portion of the channel member 82and the latter is positioned desirably centrally upon the backing member32. Package 84 is completed by lightly stretching a membrane 36' overthe item 34'. If desired the backing member 32 can be provided with twocreases to stabilize the channel member 82.

FIG. 8A illustrates a modified backing member provided with apreferential line of weakening 200, which does not extend to the lateraledges of the backing member 202. Accordingly, uninterrupted peripheralareas 204 (defined by chain outline 206) remain for heat-sealing orotherwise attaching membrane 208 to the backing member 202. The lattercan be formed from two layers 210, 212 of cardboard, plastic or thelike, of which the upper layer is slotted at 200. The slit 200 desirablyterminates short of the sealed area 204 to prevent possiblecontamination or entry of moisture through the end portions of the slit.In furtherance of these purposes the lower layer 212 can be sealed tothe upper layer 210.

A similar arrangement is shown in FIG. 11A and is useful for low profileitems such as the relatively flat pill 83. A pair of spaced ridgemembers are formed on the backing member 32' and disposed one on eachside of the item 83. The item can be further protected by a depressiondenoted by chain outline 87 formed in this example centrally of thebacking member 32. The'ridge members 85, together with either depression87 or the adjacent sloping surfaces of the membrane, prevent shifting ofthe item 83 before the package is opened.

The protection ridge members 85 can be made by gluing or otherwisesecuring strips of material similar to that of the backing member 32' tothe backing member. Alternatively, if the backing member is fabricatedfrom plastic or other moldable material the ridges 85 can be form edintegrally.

As in several other modifications of my novel package the item 83, andthe depression 37 therefor, if used can be disposed concentrically ofthe backing member 32' if quick and complete dispensing is desired. Onthe other hand the item 83 can be disposed eccentrically if some degreeof retention is desired. If the item 83 or 34 or 34' is elongated asshown in FIG. 11A complete dispensing can be assured by paralleling thelong axis of the item 83 with the angulation fold when the package ismanipulated. On the other hand retention can be had by placing the item83 transversely of the angulation fold of the backing member.

FIG. 12 of the drawings illustrates a package 90 adapted for conveyingliquids, semiliquids and powders and other relatively free flowingmaterials. In this modification a protective, open top cup member orsimilar container 92 is positioned on the backing member 32'. Desirablythe cup member 92 is glued or otherwise adhered to the backing member32' to minimize the possibility of spillage when the package 90 isopened. A measured quantity of a liquid or powder 94 is placed withinthe cup member 92, preferably for a single dosage or portion. Adheringthe cup member 92 to the backing member 32 also prevents the cup memberfrom dropping into a glass or other container into which the contents 94may be dispensed. A variety of substances can be dispensed in thisfashion in addition to pharmaceuticals, for example, coffee cream,sugar, salt and condiments.

The cup member 92 desirably is fabricated from a suitable plastic orother compatable material to avoid leakage or contamination of thecontents. The membrane 36 is readily stretched over the cup member 92and is sealed or otherwise joined to the backing member 32 in the mannermentioned previously. The engagement of the membrane 36 with the openedges 96 of the cup member 92 provides a closure for the cup member toprevent release of the contents 94 until the package 90 is opened. Infurtherance ofthis purpose the membrane 36' can be cemented or welded tothe cup member edges 96 or otherwise sealed thereto if a sterile packageis desired.

To ensure complete uncovering of the cup member 92', as better shown inFIG. 12A, the cup member can be sealed by adhering the membrane 36' tothe outer upper edges 98 of the cup member 92'. Desirably an adhesive isemployed for this purpose, whose adherent characteristic is exceededbefore rupture of the membrane 36, when the backing member 32 isangulated as described previously. As better shown in FIG. 12 thebacking member 32' can be provided with one or more lines of angulationas denoted by chain outlines 100.

A modified form of backing member is employed in connection with thatform of my novel package 102 shown in FIGS. 13 and 13A of the drawings.In this arrangement of my invention, backing member 104 is provided inpreangulated form as shown in FIG. 13. Membrane 106 is lightly stretchedover the contained item 34 and is joined or sealed to the backing'member 104. The package 102 is joined or sealed to the backing member104. The package 102 is opened substantially as illustrated in FIGS. 2and 3 of the drawings, except that the backing 104 is straightened toits planar condition as shown in FIG. 13A. This manipulation of thebacking member 104 likewise applies rupturing forces to the frangiblemembrane 106.

The arrangement of FIG. 13 is particularly appropriate for thecontrolled dispensing of item 34. Thus, if the item 34' be arranged forpartial dispensing in the flattened position of backing member 104 (FIG.13A), for example by one of the arrangements of FIGS. 6, 6A, 7 or21A22B, the item 34' thereafter can be fully dispensed without using twohands and without changing the position of the users hand (FIG. 3) byfurther angulation or bending of the backing member 104 away from theitem 34', for example, to the position substantially as shown in FIG. 3of the drawings. In furtherance of this purpose the backing member canbe provided with two or more creases or prefold lines to cause the item34' to rupture the remaining portion of the membrane 36'.

Also contemplated is the initial angulation of the backing member 105(FIG. 13B) away from the contained item 34 such that further angulationbreaks the membrane 107. This arrangement which requires only pressingof the backing member wings 109 together is suitable for use by veryweak patients for example.

FIGS. 14A, 14B and 14C illustrate means for varying the forces necessaryto be exerted upon the outer surfaces of my novel package during theopening steps. As illustrated, variation in opening force isaccomplished by changing the physical sizes of the backing member 32 inrelation to the item 34' contained in the package 30'. Thus a relativelylarge backing member 32'a (FIG. 14A) and a relatively small containeditem 34'a provide considerable mechanical advantage when the backingmember is angulated in the manner described above. On the other handFIGS. 14B and 14C illustrate progressively smaller mechanical advantageswith varied sizes of the contained items 34'b and 34's relative to thebacking members 32'b and 32'c. The physical aspects of the package 34'arenders the package particularly useful by semi-invalid patients orother persons having weak manual strength. On the other hand FIGS. 14Band 14C particularly the latter illustrate further means forchild-proofing" my novel package. The relationship between the physicalsizes of the backing members 32c and of the contained item 34'c makesthe package of FIG. 14C virtually impossible to open by very youngchildren.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate one arrangement for joining an indeterminatenumber of my individualized packages in strip formation. The strippackage 108 is formed by a pair of elongated membranes 110, 112 betweenwhich are inserted a spaced tandem array of backing members 32" withpills or other items 34" positioned centrally thereon. With thedescribed components so positioned the upper membrane 110 is sealed tothe lower membrane 112, as better shown in FIG.

16, at areas 114 extending perimctrically around each of the backingmembers 32". During the sealing process the upper membrane is lightlystretched over each of the backing members 32" and the item 34"positioned thereon.

In use, individual ones of the strip-joined packages 116 thus formed canbe severed by tearing along the sealed areas 114 therebetween. Ifdesired these areas can be scored or perforated as denoted by chainoutlines 118 thereof in FIG. '16. If it is desired not to detach theindividual packages 116 the items can be dispensed from any positionalong the length of the strip 108' through angulation of the desiredbacking member 32" along a fold extending longitudinally of the strip108', as denoted by chain outline 120. It will be understood of coursethat even backing member 32" of the strip package 108' can be precreasedor partially slitted along the fold line 120 in accordance with any ofthe several appropriate arrangements described previously. It is alsointended that easily crushed items 34" can be provided with theprotective means illustrated in FIGS. 9-12 also, for example, liquid orother relatively free flowing materials can be packaged in individualcups spaced along the length of the strip package 108' but otherwisearranged as set forth in FIG. 12 or 12A.

In FIGS. 17 and 18 of the drawings the strip packages 122 are formedwith a more or less continuous rigid backing member 124 and a singlestrip of membrane l26. In FIG. 17 of the drawings the backing member 124is divided into discrete segments 128 with a contained item 130deposited upon each one of the segments. The elongated membrane can beperimetrically sealed to each of the segments 128 as denoted byreference characters 133. Thus, each contained item 130 is individuallysealed between the associated backing member segment 128 and theadjacent portion of the strip membrane 126.

To permit facile angulation of the backing member segments 128 the areastherebetween are partially slit or deeply indented. Slits 132 permit thebacking member segments 128 to be angulated along a fold line denoted bychain outline 134, extending longitudinally of the backing member 124.If desired clearances between the backing member segments 128 can beafforded by the use ofrelatively deep transverse indentations 136instead ofslits 132.

The arrangement of FIG. 18 is similar to FIG. 17 but differs in that theslits 132 or the indentations 136 are provided only at one side of thebacking member 124 and extend to the fold line 134' only. The item 130on each backing member segment 128' can be dispensed by angulating onehalf of the related segment with respect to the balance of the strippackage 122 along the fold line 134'. In those applications wherein itis desired to completely detach the segmental packages from the strip122, the arrangement of FIG. 17 is more appropriate.

In FIG. 18A a single continuous membrane 138 is stretched over a numberof closely spaced backing members 137 arranged in a single file array.An item 139 is disposed on each backing member 137. When angulated orprior to angulation, each packet can be partially or completely removedfrom the strip package of FIG. 18A by tearing the membrane along thecontingent edges 137a of the backing members which desirably are of thesame width as the strip membrane 135. The membrane 135 can beperipherally heat-sealed or otherwise joined to each of the backingmembers 137 as denoted by chain outline 143. The strip membrane 135 ifdesired can be provided with a continuous, longitudinally extending lineof weakening 135a to increase the frangibility of the unsealed sections135b of the membrane.

FIGS. 19 and 19A illustrate the provision of an outer sleeve type cartonfor one or more of the strip packages of FIGS. 15- 18. FIG. 19illustrates the use of an outer sleeve 138 for a single strip package140, while FIG. 19A shows an appropriately shaped outer sleeve 142adapted to contain a pair of strip packages 140, in side-by-siderelation. The carton 142' is adapted 'for receiving a pair of strippackages 140' although obviously a different number can be employed.

The carton and strip packages ih FIGS. 19 and 19A permit the strippackage 140 to be withdrawn sufficiently to expose one of its segments140a. This portion of the strip package i.e., the segment 1400 can beangulated as described in connection with FIGS. l-18, to dispense thepill 141 and the like without detaching the segment 140a from the strip,and without completely withdrawing the strip from the sleeve 138.Succeeding items can be similarly dispensed simply by withdrawing thestrip 140 an appropriate additional distance from the sleeve 138. Inthis manner the precise number of tablets or pills or other itemsconsumed or utilized can be enumerated without completely withdrawingthe strip 140 to count the remaining items. The strip packages 145 ofFIG. 19A can be formed from continuous and coextensive strips ofmembrane and backing. The backing strip in this case is somewhatflexible to permit angulation at any one of the items 141 for dispensingthereof. The backing strip, however, is easily straightened when thestrip 145 is reinserted into sleeve 142.

For easily crushed pills or other items 144 the sleeve type carton 140'of FIG. 20 is provided with means for preventing contact of the items144 by the adjacent surfaces of the carton 142'.

A plurality of runners 146 and 148 are desirably secured to the uppersurfaces of the carton 142 and desirably extend along the lengththereof. The bottom surfaces of the runners 146, 148 are closely spacedfrom the adjacent lateral edges of the strip packages 140 to permit easywithdrawal thereof but to prevent such upper movement, as viewed in FIG.20 as to bring the upper surface of the item 144 into contact or nearcontact with the carton 142.

Referring now to FIGS. 21A, 21B and 21C additional means are providedfor controlling the dispensing characteristic of the item such as pill34 contained within packages 150, 152 and 154 respectively showntherein. In package 150 means are provided in combination with membrane156 for retaining the item 34 after the membrane 156 is ruptured alongits line of weakening 158. In many of the packages described herein itis usually desirable to lightly stretch the membrane over the item 34 or34 in order to retain the item adjacent the center of the package sothat it will be in a proper position for dispensing when the package isopened in the manner described previously. Of course, the provision of adepression adjacent the item 34', such as depicted in certain of thepreceding FIGS. also aids in retaining the item 34 or 34 in its properposition.

In the package 150, however, membrane 156 is lightly stretched in asingle direction relative to backing member 160 and preferably along aline of weakening 156, if used, or at least along the intendedangulation fold, i.e., in the direction denoted by arrows 162. In theopposite direction the membrane is relatively loose as denoted byserpentine arrows 164. Thus, angulation of the backing member 160 asshown in FIG. 22A ruptures the membrane 156 but affords a relativelynarrow opening between the membrane halves as denoted by arrows 166.This narrow opening 166 does not fully dispense the item 34 when of apredetermined shape, and the item is subsequently withdrawn by thefingers of the other hand of the user or by shucking the item 34 withthe thumb or finger of the hand used to open the package. In the lattercase, as mentioned previously, extrusion can be accomplished withoutdirect contact with the item. Using a thicker membrane (desirably with ascored or thin area, overlapping membrane sections, or other line ofweakening, FIG. 2B) will favor retention ofthe item.

The membrane 156 of package 152 (FIG. 21B) is likewise stretched in asingle direction. In this example, however, the membrane 156 isstretched transversely of its line of weakening 158' if used, or theintended angulation fold. Upon angulation of backing member 160 to theposition shown in FIG. 22B the membrane 156' is ruptured to form a wideopening 168 which fully dispenses the item 34, when of a given size,without further manipulation.

In the package 154 of FIG. 21C auxiliary lines ofweakening 170 areapplied transversely of a major line of weakening 158. The auxiliarylines of weakening 170 have the effect of providing a larger opening,after the manner of opening 168 of FIG. 228, when the backing memberruptures the membrane 156.

The principles involved in opening my novel package such as illustratedin FIG. 28 can be applied for the quick-opening of a blister" typepackage 172, as shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B. Package 172 is formed from arelatively rigid backing member 174 in the manner described previously.A pair of relatively rigid blister sections 176, 178 are adhered, inthis example, to the adjacent surfaces of the backing member 174, asdenoted by reference characters 180. The blister sections 176, 178 canbe fabricated from a relatively stiff transparent plastic sheet materialknown and used for conventional blister packages.

The blister sections 176, 178, however, are disposed alloquirally withtheir adjacent edge portions abutting or overlapping as denoted byreference character 182. When thus disposed, the blister sections 176,178 enclose a pill or capsule 184 or other item therewithin. However,the package 172can be opened with one hand by angulating the backingmember 174 along a fold line in general alignment with theaforementioned edge portions. In the example, the backing member 174 isangulated (FIG. 233) along its central axis (denoted by chain line 186)in the manner described previously. When this occurs the blistersections 176, 178 are separated as better shown in FIG. 238 to provide adispensing opening 188. Item 184 can be temporarily held adjacent one ofthe blister sections 176, 178 until it is grasped with the fingers orthe package is inverted to release the item through opening 188.

If desired, the overlapping edges 182 of the blister sections 176, 178can be lightly joined or sealed, as denoted by reference character 189,to prevent inadvertent opening of the package, to increase the requisiteopening force for further child-proofing, or to provide a completelysealed package 172. In either case, the overlapping edges 182 with orwithout the seal 189 define a line of weakening in the transparentportion of the package 172. When the overlapping edges are sealed, as bythe use of rubber cement (e.g. Contact Cement made for Sears Roebuck &Company, Chicago, III.) or other suitable cement or glue or lightlywelded by heat or solvent, the strength of the blister sections 176, 178is such that the seal is broken without appreciable deforming theblister sections. If the item 184 is easily crushed, it is not bearinglycontacted during the opening procedure, although additional protectionmeans are not utilized.

As shown in FIG. 23C, additional joining means are contemplated for theadjacent edges of the blister sections 176', 178'. In this example, oneof the blister sections e.g. 176 is provided with a grooved structure191 into which the adjacent edge portion 193 of the other blistersection 178' is inserted. The grooved structure 191 can be formed mostreadily by applying a suitably shaped strip 191a along the adjacent edgeof one of the blister sections, for example, the section 176. Thepackage of FIG. 23C is opened as set forth in FIG. 238. If desired, thetonque-and-groove joint 191-193 can be lightly sealed, as set forth inFIG. 23A.

Another form ofjoining means for the adjacent edges of the blistersections 176, 178' is shown in FIG. 23D of the drawings. In this examplea flat strip 191b is secured to one of the blister sections, for examplethe section 178', so as to overlie or underlie the junction 189atherebetween. The other blister section, for example the blister section176', is glued or otherwise sealed to the strip 1911; which desirablycoextends with the junction 189a. The gluing or sealing is of afrangible nature such that. the seal is readily broken by the openingforces associated with angulation of the backing member 174 (FIG. 23B).

In those modifications of my invention wherein the backing member isprovided with a line of weakening, as shown in certain of theaforedescribed FIGS., it is contemplated that the line of weakening neednot extend entirely across the backing member but can extend (not shown)from an edge of the backingmember to a point adjacent the item. In suchcase only a portion of the backing member will be angulated to partiallyrupture the membrane for partial dispensation of the item whereupon theitem can be extracted with the fingers. It is also considered, in thosepackages provided with a membrane having a preferential line ofweakening formed therein that the line of weakening can bemoisture-proofed by coating the line of weakening with a suitable glueor cement, the strength of which will not interfere with the opening orfrangibility of the membrane.

The strip 191b may also take the form ofa relatively narrow strip ofpressure sensitive tape or the like which is readily removed from one ofthe blister sections 176' or 178' by the opening forces involved inangulating the backing member. In certain cases it is desirable to placethe strip or tape on the inside of the blister sections 176', 178 asdenoted by chain outline 191a thereof so that the item does not contactthe adhesive during opening of the package.

In FIG. 24 one of my novel strip packages 190 is subsequently numberedor otherwise provided with printed information on the opaque orrelatively rigid backing members or segments 192 forming part of theindividual packets 193. For birth control administration, a reminder"strip 194 of similar length is provided with the requisite number ofseverable sections 196 which are coextensive, at least in thelongitudinal direction, with the individual packets 193 or backingmembers 192 of the strip 190. Desirably, the reminder strip 194 istransparent (except for printing thereon) or is of less width than thestrip package 190 so as not to obscure the sequential numbering thereof.The sections 196 can be provided on their reverse side with suitablepressure sensitive adhesive for attachment to the backing segments 192respectively. As the day of the week on which the birth control dosagecommences obviously varies among individual users, it is not practicalto print the days of the week directly upon the backing segments ormembers 192 of the strip package 190. Therefore, assuming the sequencebegins on Tuesday the preceding one or more segments such as the Mondaysegment 196:: is removed and the remainder of the identification strip194 is adhered to the number 1" package 192a and so on. To facilitateremoving the one or more sections 196a rows perforations 200 desirablyare provided between the sections 196. If needed, the removed day"segment or segments 196a can be adhered to backing member segments (notshown) at the other end of the strip package 190.

The strip package 190 can for example be formed from a single strip offrangible membrane and a plurality of closely spaced backing members192. The individual packages 192 are thus held together merely by thenarrow and readily severable portions 198 of membrane between thepackets 192, which are thus easily separated from the strip 190. Infurtherance of this purpose the membrane can be perforated (not shown)along the narrow portions 198 between the packets 192.

In FIGS. 25 and 25A another form of my novel package 202 is particularlyadapted for handling larger items such as the item 204. In this example,backing member 206 is provided with a crease or other line of weakening208 adjacent an end or edge 210 ofthe item 204. When the backing member206 is angulated as better shown in FIG. 25A the item edge 210 aids inrupturing the frangible membrane 212 whereupon the item 204 can bereadily withdrawn from the package 202 with the fingers. In manipulatingthe package 202 one or both hands of the user can be employed dependingupon the size of the package.

Another form of my novel protective means is illustrated in FIGS. 26 and27 of the drawings wherein a backing member 214 of the quick-openingpackage 216 is provided with a shaped, protective overlay 218. Theoverlay 218 is provided with one or more raised portions 220 whichpartially or completely surround item 222 as desired. The raisedportions 220, for maximum protection can coextend with the height of theitem 222 as better shown in FIG. 27. In the package 216, a very fragileitem 222 can be shipped without danger of crushing when the package 216is subsequently opened. If desired, the backing member 214 can beprovided with a crease or other line of weakening 224 for the purposesdescribed above.

A similar package 216 is shown in FIGS. 28 and 28A of the drawings. Inthe latter instance, however, the entire backing member 226 is molded orotherwise shaped to provide the protective protrusions 220'describedabove. To aid in opening the package 216' the molded backingmember 226 can be provided with a crease 228 extending preferably alonga planar'portion of the packing member 226 and adjacent the item 222'. ai

It will be understood of course that the protective protrusions 220 or220' can be provided with differing shapes depending upon the shape andsize of the item 222 or 222'. In the examples shown in FIGS. 2628A itwill be appreciated that all of the membrane rupturing forces aredistributed between the membrane 230 or 230' and the protectiveprotuberances 220 or 220' in avoidance of the item 222 or 222'.

In the arrangements of FIGS. 2628A the protective protuberances 220 or220 serve the additional function of preventing the rupture forces fromforceably ejecting the item 222 or 222 as no opening forces are appliedto the item. Thus, the item 222 or 222' is less likely to fly out of thepackage 216 or 216 in the event that the user carelessly opens thepackage.

In addition overlay 218 (FIG. 26) or the shaped backing member 226 (FIG.28) positions the item 222 or 222 at its proper location within thepackage and affords additional moisture protection when the overlay 218or the backing member 226 is formed from certain plastic materials. Theshaped overlay 218 and the backing member.226 minimize the possibilitiesof inadvertent rupture of the membrane 230 or 230' as the preponderantproportion of the membrane is in contact with the protectiveprotubcrances 220 or 220'.

Considering the forms of my invention as shown in the preceding figuresparticularly FIGS. 6, 6A, 7, 21A-22B, and 25, it is readily apparentthat the package of my invention can be adapted for dispensing itemshaving a wide variety of shapes and uses. Thus, a pill, tablet, capsule,or similar item can be dispensed either completely or partially with thepackage of my invention.

In view of the foregoing it will be apparent that novel and efficientforms of individualized packages'have beendisclosed herein. The packagescan be provided in discrete form or can be interconnected for dispensingfrom a suitable carton. W hile I have shown and described certainpresently preferred embodiments of the invention and presently preferredmethods of practicing the same,"it is to be distinctly understood thatthe invention is not limited thereto but may be variously embodied andpractice within the scope of the following claims.

I claim:

1. An individualized package comprising a relatively rigid backingmember, an item for dispensing positioned within a central area of saidbacking member, and a frangible membrane lightly stretched over and inlightly pressured contact therewith and joined about the periphery ofsaid backing member, the structural strength of said backing memberbeing in excess of the rupture strength of said membrane so that saidmembrane breaks over said item upon angulation of said backing membergenerally away from said item.

2. The combination according to claim 1 wherein said backing member isprovided with a depression therein for positioning and partiallyreceiving said item.

3. The combination according to claim 1 wherein said membrane is lightlystretched over said item only in a direction sub stantially parallel toa fold line of said angulation so that an item of predetermined shape ispartially dispensed.

4. The combination according to claim I wherein said membrane is lightlystretched over said item.only in a direction transversely of a fold lineof said angulation so that an item of predetermined shape is fullydispensed.

5. The combination according to claim 1 wherein means are provided formodifying the rupture characteristic of said membrane to control thedispensing characteristic of said item.

6. The combination according to claim 1 wherein means are provided formodifying the angulation characteristic of said backing member tocontrol the dispensing characteristic of said item.

7. The combination according to claim 1 wherein a plurality of saidpackages are joined in strip formation, and means are provided on saidformation to permit individual angulation of said packages at each ofthe items respectively contained therein for individual dispensingtherefrom.

8. An individualized package comprising a relatively rigid backingmember, an item for dispensing positioned within a central area of saidbacking member, a frangible membrane lightly stretched over said itemand substantially in contact therewith and joined about the periphery ofsaid backing member, the structural strength of said backing memberbeing in excess of the rupture strength of said backing member being inexcess of the rupture strength of said membrane so that said membranebreaks upon angulation of said backing member generally away from saiditem, and protective means disposed adjacent said item for at leastpartially preventing the application of membrane-rupturing forces tosaid item.

9. The combination according to claim 8 (wherein said protective meansinclude) an auxiliary backing member interposed between said item andsaid first-mentioned backing member, said auxiliary backing member beingdisposed to rupture said membrane upon angulation of saidfirst-mentioned backing member. 1

10. The combination according to claim 8 wherein said item includes arelatively free flowing material, said protective means include a cupmember placed on said backing member, said material is depositedtherein, and said membrane is lightly stretched thereover.

11. The combination according to claim 8 wherein said protection meansinclude a pair of ridge members disposed one on each side of said item.

12. The combination according to claim 8 wherein said protective meansinclude shaped backing means having protuberances extending intoengagement with said membrane to protect said item.

13. A package comprising a pair of encapsulating members, one of saidmembers being relatively rigid, the other of said members beingfrangible, an item for dispensing positioned within an area enclosed bysaid members, said frangible member being joined about its periphery tothe other of said members, the structural strength of said one memberbeing in excess of the rupture strength of said other member, and meansfor defining an angulation fold line across at least one of said membersand across said item so that said frangible member breaks adjacent saidfold line upon angulation of said package to expose said item at saidfold line for dispensing purposes.

14. A package according to claim 13 wherein said frangible member isflexible and is lightly stretched over said item in contact therewith sothat said frangible member is ruptured by said item upon said saidangulation.

15. A package according to claim 13 wherein at least one of saidencapsulating members is provided with line-of-weakening means disposedgenerally parallel to the angulation fold of said package.

16. The combination according to claim 15 wherein said line of weakeningmeans is extended only partially across said membrane so that said itemis not completely released by angulation of said backing member.

17. The combination according to claim 15 wherein said rigid member isprovided with spaced lines of weakening, the space therebetween beinggenerally equal to the adjacent width of said item.

18. The combination according to claim 15 wherein said weakening meansincludes lightly adhered overlapping edges ofdiscrete membrane sections.

19. The combination according to claim 13 wherein said one member isinitially angled away from said item, and said item can be dispensed byfurther angulation of said one member away from said item.

20. The combination according to claim 15 wherein said weakening meansinclude lightly stretched juxtaposed edges of discrete membranesections.

21. An individualized package comprising a relatively rigid backingmember, an item for dispensing positioned on said backing member, and afrangible housing secured to said backing member and enclosing said itemtherebetween, said housing including a pair of complementarily shapedand disposed blister sections, said sections having closely adjacentmating edge portions, said backing member being capable of angulationalong a fold line disposed generally in alignment with said edgeportions for opening said sections and dispensing said item.

22. The combination according to claim 21 wherein said blister sectionsare spaced outwardly of said item when said item is disposed on saidbacking member.

23. The combination according to claim 21 wherein said edge portions areoverlapping.

24. The combination according to claim 21 wherein said mating portionsare frangibly joined, and the structural strength of said blistersections is capable of rupturing said join without appreciably deformingsaid blister sections.

25. An individualized package comprising a relatively rigid backingmember, an item for dispensing positioned with a central area of saidbacking member, and a frangible membrane lightly stretched over saiditem and substantially in contact therewith and joined about theperiphery of said backing member, the structural strength of saidbacking member being in excess of the rupture strength of said membraneso that said membrane breaks upon angulation of said backing membergenerally away from said item, said backing member being provided withat least one line of weakening to determine said angulation foldtherein, said line of weakening being juxtaposed to an edge portion ofsaid item to aid in rupturing said membrane thereover.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION patent 3,540,579Dated November 17 1970 Harold Richard Hellstrom Inventor(s) It iscertified that error appears in the above-identified patent and thatsaid Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Claim 8, delete line 7.

Claim 9, lines 1 and 2, delete the parenthesis.

Claim 24, line 4, "join" should read joint Signed and sealed this 9thday of May 1972.

(SEAL) Attest:

EDWARD M.FLETCHER,JR. ROBERT GOTTSCHALK Attesting Officer Commissionerof Pat FORM PO-IOSO (IO-59] nr "mm

